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I wanted to tell my son’s story as it will offer hope to carers living with someone who has OCD.

My son was 14 when his symptoms became evident. While on an overseas trip, the symptoms blew out and he had difficulty getting dressed and going out etc. Once home the psychiatrist insisted he take medication which he refused and he became increasingly isolated and missed about a year of school. This was a very difficult and disruptive time for him and us. He continued to see psychiatrists but they refused to work with him as he refused to be medicated. We also worked with a psychologist who specialised in OCD but my son decided he could not trust him so my husband and I saw him as a support for us. After about six months we found an elderly psychiatrist who agreed to work with him even if he refused medication. Nick saw him weekly. Eventually he returned to school but only made minimal effort and he had no friends. School had always been problematic for our son because while being very bright, he had learning difficulties which no amount of extra tuition and assessment helped. He was very angry with us and difficult to live with. Eventually he finished year 12. His symptoms over time continued to improve though he still had ritualistic behaviour. After school he wanted to leave home and work on a station up north. This was difficult for us but he went but only lasted for a week. He then wanted to go strawberry picking in Finland which he attempted and came home after a month. We began doing family therapy with a fantastic psychologist. Over the passed two years he has been doing various courses as TAFE, working with horses. He also began learning the violin and guitar. By the end of last year, he had become a much happier and relaxed young man. His rituals only appear very occasionally. He has explored various career options but this year decided to return to redo year 12 to get into university. His writing skills have improved. He has a goal and I am now confident he will succeed.

What did I learn by this very traumatic and difficult six years for our family? I want to write a book about it as there is so much to say. But simply I wanted to let people know that there is hope. Hang in with your loved one and do not give into despair.
They need you to require them to have goals and expectations for a normal existence.